Physiotherapy at home after a stroke

After a stroke, physiotherapy focuses on helping you move safely again and on preventing problems such as stiff muscles and joints. Practice matters because the brain can reorganise itself and form new connections, which is how many people regain movement over time.¹

At home, your physiotherapist works on the movements your day actually needs. For example:

• getting in and out of bed, and standing up from a chair
• walking around your home, with or without a walking aid
• steps, thresholds and getting into the bathroom safely
• using a weaker arm or hand in everyday tasks
• balance, so you feel steadier on your feet.

Progress usually comes from regular practice, not just the hour your physiotherapist is there. HealthHub’s guidance is to practise every day, or at least three times a week, ideally at a regular time each day, and to build activity up gradually, especially if you feel tired after the stroke.¹

Your physiotherapist leaves you with exercises that suit you and checks them at the next visit.

Family members and helpers make a real difference. HealthHub recommends that caregivers attend rehabilitation sessions and learn how to help with exercises at home.¹ Your physiotherapist can show them how to:

• help you stand, walk and transfer safely without straining themselves
• support your exercises between visits
• spot when something is too much and you need to rest.

Physiotherapy is one part of recovery. Depending on your needs, your doctor or physiotherapist may suggest occupational therapy (everyday tasks such as dressing and bathing) or speech therapy (speaking and swallowing).² Oreka arranges physiotherapy only, but your physiotherapist can tell you when another kind of therapy might help.

Support groups such as the Singapore National Stroke Association and Stroke Support Station run activities and groups for stroke survivors and families.

Each visit is 60 minutes at home, starting on the hour. At the first visit, your physiotherapist asks about your health and goals, sees how you move, and agrees a plan with you. Initial and follow-up visits cost the same.

1. HealthHub (Ministry of Health), Rehabilitation after Stroke: Physiotherapy, last reviewed 3 June 2026
2. HealthHub, Rehabilitation after Stroke: Occupational Therapy, last reviewed 11 June 2026
3. HealthHub, Rehabilitation after Stroke: Speech Therapy for Communication Difficulties, last reviewed 25 May 2026